Iranian FM to visit Pakistan on Jan 29 as tension diffuse
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iran have agreed that their ambassadors would return to their respective posts by January 26, 2024 in a bid to diffuse tensions between both countries.
The agreement to this effect was reached in a telephonic conversation between Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
Following the violation of Pakistan’s airspace by Iran on January 16, Pakistan had announced to recall its ambassador from Tehran besides conveying to the Iranian side that their envoy may also not return for the time being.
“Following the telephone conversation between the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, it has been mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by 26 January 2024,” according to a joint press statement issued by the Foreign Office.
Besides, at the invitation of Foreign Minister Jilani, the Iranian foreign minister will undertake a visit to Pakistan on January 29.
Caretaker Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi has commended the constructive role played by friendly countries especially Turkiye in de-escalating the recent tension between Pakistan and Iran.
In an interview with TRT, he said that the situation has largely returned to normalcy due to the effective measures taken by the government of Pakistan and state institutions.
However, he emphasized that the goodwill gestures and continuous contacts by friendly countries are highly appreciable.
The minister highlighted that, as a responsible nuclear power, Pakistan fulfilled its duty and normalized the situation. He explained that it was not possible for Pakistan to refrain from responding to the aggressive action, leading to a proportional and well-measured response.
According to information minister, this response has sent a clear message that Pakistan will not remain silent against any aggression and will respond accordingly. He added that this has also bolstered the confidence of the Pakistani people in the state and its institutions.
Solangi mentioned that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan maintained close contact with the foreign ministers of both Pakistan and Iran.
He further stated that Pakistan’s foreign minister welcomed the Turkish foreign minister’s efforts and message of goodwill. Pakistan continues to be in contact with Turkiye and China, who are actively contributing to ongoing diplomatic efforts in this regard.
The minister reiterated that the strong relations between the government and people of Pakistan with the government and people of Turkiye are a valuable asset for Pakistan.